The Care Collective — South West Primary Care Pilot aims to improve how Queenslanders in the South West region access care by building on the strengths and fixing health service gaps in these communities. Funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, the project is focused on health service providers working together to develop models of care that meet the needs of the community.
The Project: When talking with health providers, consumers and other stakeholders, it was identified that many people living in far south western Queensland find it hard to access primary health care services and their care is not always coordinated. This project aims to work on this in:
- Charleville
- Quilpie
- Cunnamulla
- Thargomindah and surrounding areas.
What is important for the project to be successful? Understanding the local area’s services, programs and providers. Taking a holistic approach to complex and chronic health conditions. Clearly communicating with health and community services to ensure timely and appropriate referrals.
The dedicated Care Collective workforce across the pilot region is to be determined by a place-based care coordination approach
Benefits for the community include:
- Person-centred and culturally safe health care for consumers, closer to home where possible.
- Improved communication between health care providers and services.
- Better coordinated access to health, community and social support services for the community.
- Stronger health literacy in the community.
- Better management of health conditions with personal care plans and supports in place.
- Fewer avoidable hospitalisations and trips to the emergency department.
